Scaling and root planing is a treatment usually performed during the early stages of periodontal disease to help remove plaque and tartar that has built up beneath the gum line. This procedure is considered a deep cleaning, and may be performed to prevent the disease from progressing to a more advanced stage, or to improve the quality of a patient's tissue before surgery.
Why Would I Need A Scaling And Root Planing Dental Procedure?
You may need a scaling and root planing procedure if you have periodontitis, a more serious type of gum disease. This procedure would help treat the swollen gums by eliminating any dental tartar. Tooth scaling and root planing is a great way to protect your gums, teeths, and bones in your mouth.
The Scaling and Root Planing Procedure
This deep-cleaning dental care procedure is a deep cleaning dental procedure used to get rid of gum disease. Luckily, if your gum disease is diagnosed early enough, our team of well-educated doctors at Carolina Dental Care should be able to treat your periodontics forever.
What Happens During a Scaling and Root Procedure?
During the scaling part of the procedure, an instrument called an ultrasonic scaler is used to scrape away any plaque or tartar that has built up beneath the gums. Plaque often develops in pockets that form between the teeth and gums. As the disease progresses, these pockets grow, which may cause teeth to loosen and eventually fall out.
After the scaler has removed the plaque and tartar, the treated area is rough and uneven. Root planing smooths the root of the tooth so that the gums can heal and reattach to the tooth properly. Anesthesia or sedation may be used during this procedure. Antibiotics or irrigation with antimicrobials may be prescribed to help prevent bacteria from growing in the mouth.
Does This Deep-Cleaning Dental Care Procedure Hurt?
While you can expect some discomfort after the treatment, the scaling and root planing procedure does not hurt. Before the procedure you are given a local anesthetic to ensure a pain-free deep-cleaning.
What Type of Special Aftercare is Required After?
After this procedure, you may experience some discomfort for a couple of days and your teeth may be sensitive. You should expect your gums to be swollen and possibly bleed, as well. Medication may be prescribed to address any post-treatment discomfort and to prevent infection. After the scaling and root planing procedure, patients should practice proper oral hygiene in order to prevent pockets from reforming.
What Foods Should I Avoid After a Scaling and Root Planing Treatment?
Once the numbness in your mouth has worn off, you can eat mostly whatever you want. However, it’s important to know that there are certain types of foods that you should avoid, including:
- Sticky and hard foods, like nuts, chips, candy
- Spicy foods
- Acidic foods
- Highly-seasoned foods
You should also avoid smoking until your gums are completely healed.
